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  • Bandits invade Bwari, Niger communities kill four, kidnap 39

    Bandits invade Bwari, Niger communities kill four, kidnap 39

    • Demands N50m for each kidnapped person as ransome

    • Police keeps mum over incident

    No fewer than four people were killed while 39 others were kidnapped when blood thirsty bandits invaded Kuduru, Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as Garam and Azu, two communities under Niger State.

    On Saturday, December 23, bandits invaded Garam community, which is five minutes drive from Bwari killing a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, while kidnapping 13 other person’s.

    On Thursday December 28, bandits again invaded Kuduru, which shares a boundary with Garam, and kidnapped 18 persons.

    Also on Friday, December 29, bandits invaded Azu, killing three people and kidnapping eight others.

    A resident of Garam, who identified herself as Mrs. Juliana confirmed the development and said the first house the bandits entered, they asked for the house of their target.

    She stated: “The bandits entered a wrong house, kidnapped two boys who later led them to the house of their target.

    “When they got there, they kidnapped the entire family, but while leaving the house, they shot the man (their target), who is a pastor at the Redeemed Christians Church of God in the presence of his wife and their three children.”

    Read Also; FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    It was further gathered that when the wife realised that she left her six month old baby behind, she asked for permission of the bandits to go carry the baby, and she was followed back to the house by the only female among the bandits.

    However, when the female bandit ran out of patience, she left the woman, joined the others and went with the other kidnapped persons who were 13 in number.”

    The pastor’s wife, it was gathered, is a teacher in one of the government secondary schools in Bwari.

    “The wife told them that her husband is on duty.  They, however, kidnapped two of his children.”

    The eyewitness added that 13 persons were kidnapped, while a five year old boy of the Redeemed Church pastor that was killed was abandoned by the bandits at the river side because he couldn’t cross the river.

    The boy was rescued by the vigilante who went on the trail of the bandits.

    All efforts to get the reaction of FCT Police Command to confirm the incident were futile as the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh did not pick calls nor respond to text messages.

  • Why we trained Justice Ministry staff on copyright law, policy – NCC

    Why we trained Justice Ministry staff on copyright law, policy – NCC

    The Nigeria Copyright Commission has explained why Staff of the Ministry of Justice are being trained on the law and policy of copyright.

    According to the Director General of Nigeria Copyright Commission, Dr. John Asien, it is meant at increasing knowledge about copyright, which will in turn improve earnings of the country’s creative industry.

    Globally, the Copyright industry is worth over $73 trillion.

    He said Nigeria needs to take advantage of the numerous opportunities in the creative industry by safeguarding the industry.

    Read Also; Ondo: Who emerges Aiyedatiwa’s deputy?

    He also revealed that another seminar will be coming up next year to review the gaps in the Copyright law.

    Also speaking at the Seminar on Copyright Law and Policy for officials of the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, said that collective efforts are needed for the development and growth of the copyright industry in Nigeria.

    Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, stressed that the country cannot afford to be left behind in the huge investment in the creative industry.

    Fagbemi who was represented by Dr. Patrick Oyong, Director of Legal drafting Department said, “Globally, copyright is receiving significant attention and Nigeria cannot be seen to be left behind.”

    He therefore said that the seminar would help expand the frontier of knowledge on copyright.

  • Insecurity: Sokoto Corps to support not alternative security forces – Kebbe

    Insecurity: Sokoto Corps to support not alternative security forces – Kebbe

    The Sokoto state government has assured that the Community Guards Corps initiative is a responsive and purposeful security measure against crimes and not as an alternative or substitute to the conventional security system operations.

    The Committee Chairman for the establishment of the Corps, Alhaji Yusha’u Muhammad Ahmed Kebbe, gave this clarification recently in Sokoto at the formal signing of the Bill into law by Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto.

    Justifying the initiative, Aliyu Sokoto vowed that “Sokoto will no longer be attractive nor a hiding place for bandits, cattle rustlers and kidnappers. “We have put all the necessary mechanisms in place and therefore, all hands must be on deck in providing security for our people whose support is also needed to achieve the desired results,” he maintained.

    Read Also; FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    Pressed further, Ahmed Kebbe said the essence of the corps was to actively complement the efforts and strengthen the capacity of the Joint Military and Police including NSCDC operations to curb insecurity in the state.

    While noting that conventional security operations were not enough, the Guard Corps Committee Chairman disclosed that the recruitment of the guards had started yielding fruitful results as significant improvement in the security situation of the state was fast encouraging.

  • FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    FULL LIST: All past Ondo governors dead except Mimiko

    The death of former Ondo state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, on December 27, 2023, has once again depleted the giant elites of Nigeria’s political class.

    The quantity and quality of tributes expressing grief over Akeredolu’s death has been overwhelming. Nothing could have prepared Ondo citizens, and indeed the country at large, for the shocker.

    Checks by The Nation revealed that all past Ondo democratically-elected governors have passed on except one — Segun Mimiko.

    Their passing on re-echoes the words of English poet and playwright, Williams Shakespeare, who described the world as a stage where each person plays his part and leaves.

    These dead ex-governors were men of many parts. They wore so many caps and assumed many roles and they played all their parts so well, so efficiently, as to earn applause.

    Like the biblical reference, to everything, there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born and a time to die.

    The exit of these past governors closed an era and also opened another.

    Here’s what you need to know about the dead past governors:

    1. Michael Ajasin – He served as governor of Ondo State from 1979 to 1983. He is the first democratically elected governor of the state.

    The former Ondo governor died of “natural causes” in his home at the age of 78.

    2. Bamidele Olumilua – He became governor of Ondo in the third republic from January 1992 to November 1993.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Southwest governors to collaborate with Akeredolu’s family to give ex-Ondo gov befitting burial

    In 2020, Muyiwa, the former governor’s son, said he died after a brief illness at the age of 80.

    3. Adebayo Adefarati – He was among the first elected governors who served after the military era was halted and the fourth republic was welcomed on May 29, 1999.

    He died from an undisclosed ailment. He was 76 years old at the time of his death.

    4. Olusegun Agagu – He was Ondo’s second democratically elected governor. Agagu was also deputy governor to Olumilua.

    The former minister was said to have slumped and died in Lagos in 2013. He was 65.

    5. Rotimi Akeredolu – Akeredolu died at the age of 67. The Ondo government said Akeredolu died of “complications from protracted prostate cancer”.

    6. Olusegun Mimiko – He was a two-time state commissioner for health, and served as Ondo governor from 2009 to 2017.

    After his first term, he sought re-election and won, making him the first governor in the state to win a second-term bid since 1999.

  • I will fight infrastructure battle in Benue, says Alia

    I will fight infrastructure battle in Benue, says Alia

    Benue state governor, Hyacinth Alia, has promised to intensify the infrastructure battle in the Northcentral state next year.

    The governor, who signed the 2024 budget passed by the House of Assembly in Makurdi, the state capital, described it as a budget of infrastructure, job creation and poverty alleviation.

    He said: “Infrastructural development is the backbone of any thriving society. It lays the foundation for progress and economic growth. With this budget, we are investing significantly in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure.

    “We recognize that well-connected communities are empowered communities. To this extent, we are determined to enhance accessibility, connectivity, and overall livability for our citizens.”

    Alia added: “The Budget of Infrastructure, Job Creation and Poverty Alleviation, which draws life from our Policy Document tagged “A Strategic Development Plan for a Greater Benue” after revision from the Benue State House of Assembly, has an aggregated financing to the sum of N225,727,395,206.97K) only.

    “The disaggregated sum of the total 2024 budget comprised of a total recurrent expenditure of N110,511,233,965.99K) only which represents 48.9% of the total budget.”

    The governor explained that the capital head stood at N115,240,361,240.99, representing represent 51.1per cent of the total budget.

    Read Also; Ondo: Who emerges Aiyedatiwa’s deputy?

    However, he said the deficit financing stood at N34,691,000,000.00, which represents 15.3% of the budget.

    Alia said the estimate represented a clear and unwavering commitment to the well-being of tje people and the growth of our great stat, adding that “it is a roadmap that charts the course for a future where our communities thrive, our economy flourishes, and our citizens enjoy an improved quality of life.”

    He stresed: “This budget is a beacon of hope for job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs. We understand the importance of job creation in fostering a dynamic and resilient economy.

    “By allocating resources to various sectors, we aim to stimulate economic activities that will, in turn, generate employment opportunities. Whether through public works projects, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, Agriculture or investments in emerging industries, in which we are committed to creating a conducive environment for job growth. Reiterating his determination to fight poverty in the state, the governor said: “Poverty alleviation remains at the forefront of our agenda.

    “We acknowledge the challenges faced by our fellow citizens, and we are resolute in our determination to address them. This budget reflects a comprehensive approach to poverty reduction by focusing on education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. By investing in the well-being of our people, we aim to break the cycle of poverty and create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

  • Troops kill 8,256 terrorists, rescue 4,620 hostages in one year

    Troops kill 8,256 terrorists, rescue 4,620 hostages in one year

    The Defence Headquarters says troops on operations across the country killed 8,256 terrorists and rescued 4,620 kidnap victims from January to December 2023.

    It also said that troops recovered 100,316,600 litres of crude oil, arrested 15,043 terrorists, 1,090 oil thieves and other suspected criminals within the year.

    The Director Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed this on Friday, December 29, during media briefing at the Defence Headquarters Abuja.

    He said 11,015 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and members of their families surrendered to troops, while 953 terrorists were arrested during the period under review.

    Providing details of troops successes in 2023, the Defence spokesperson said troops of Operation HADIN KAI in North East killed 1,759 terrorist, arrested 953 suspects, and rescued 826 hostages, while 11,015 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists fighters and their families surrendered.

    Buba said troops also recovered 681 arms, 10,821 ammunition, 739 equipment and 2,059 livestock.

    Read Also; Ondo: Who emerges Aiyedatiwa’s deputy?

    On successes recorded in the North West against bandits and terrorists, the military high command said troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI killed 1,522 terrorist arrsted 645 and rescued 1,101 hostages.

    Buba said troops also recovered 53 AK47 rifles, 426 assorted arms, 2,342 rounds of 7.62mm special, 6,900 assorted ammunitions and 5,084 livestock.

    On troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN in the North Central, the Defence Headquarters said troops killed 2,094 terrorists, arrested 2,316 suspects and rescue 630 hostages.

    It also said troops recovered 78 AK47 rifles, 666 assorted arms, 4,772 rounds of 7.62mm special, 7357 assorted ammunitions and 4,734 livestock.

    “Equally troops in the North Central Operation WHIRL STROKE in 2023 are 977 terrorists neutralized, 722 arrested suspects and 571 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 45 AK47 rifles, 198 assorted arms, 952 rounds of 7.62mm special, 1,666 assorted ammunitions and 338 livestock,” the DHQ said.

    On troops operations in the North West against bandits and terrorists, the military high command said troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH killed 992 terrorist, arrested 345 suspects and 538 rescued hostages.

    Buba said troops recovered 34 AK47 rifles, 346 assorted arms, 4,792 rounds of 7.62mm special, 5,127 assorted ammunitions and 830 livestock.

    On operations against oil theives and bunkering in the Niger Delta region, the military high command said troops of Operation DELTA SAFE killed 448 terrorist, arrested 1,090 oil thieves and other suspected criminals and 309 rescued hostages.

    “Also, oil theft were denied 100,316,600 litres of crude oil, 60,339,426 litres of AGO, 3,465,450 litres of DPK and 3,544,990 litres of PMS. Additionally, troops recovered 321 assorted weapons and destroyed 1,016 wooden boats, 16 barges/vessels and 1,374 illegal refining sites,” Buba said.

    He said troops recorded successes against the outlawed Indegenous People of Biafra (IPOB) through several operations within the year.

    According to hom, troops of Operation UDO KA in South East killed 464 terrorists, arrsted 907 a suspects and 518 rescued hostages.

    Buba also said troops recovered 65 AK47 rifles, 150 pump action guns, 53 dane guns, 85 pistols, 684 assorted arms, 1,082 rounds of 7.62mm special, 4,371 live cartridges, 5,825 assorted ammunitions and 630 other equipment.

  • Tinubu is determined to end reign of terror in Southeast – Shettima

    Tinubu is determined to end reign of terror in Southeast – Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Friday, December 29, hinted at President Bola Tinubu’s firm resolve to end the reign of terror in the southeast region of the country.

    According to a statement issued by his Spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President described those behind security crisis as self-serving criminals and certain persons taking advantage of the security situation to foster their dangerous political agenda.

    According to him, the President had been worried about the economic devastation inflicted on the southeast geopolitical zone by non-state actors since he assumed office and is determined to deploy all available resources to eliminate the purveyors of falsehoods and propaganda that have become weapons against Nigeria’s unity.

    Shettima disclosed this in Bende, Abia State, during the unveiling of the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P) by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.

    Before the unveiling ceremony, President Tinubu was conferred with the traditional title of Omeziri Igbo 1 at the grand civic reception held in honour of the Deputy  Speaker.

    Shettima, who received the title on behalf of the President, was also conferred with the traditional title of Enyioma Ndigbo by the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Mbah.

    This heralded the unveiling of the Peace in the South East Project in Bende, Abia State.

    Delivering his speech titled, “Why We are all Umunna,” VP Shettima said: “His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been concerned about the extensive economic devastation inflicted by non-state actors on this beautiful region since we took office. He is acutely aware that our commitment to Nigeria’s future remains incomplete as long as we grapple with the sinister operations of economic saboteurs who masquerade as advocates for the Ndi-Igbo.

    “That’s why he’s determined to utilize all available resources to ensure that the peace we’re establishing in this region is not cosmetic, and we can’t guarantee it unless all of us see through the falsehoods and propaganda that have become weapons against our unity.”

    Senator Shettima noted that the gory activities of the criminals holding the South East captive are self-serving and do not in any way represent the interests of Ndi-Igbo and the entire country.

    He said the terror groups that have held the South East to ransom are not a creation of the people of the region, or of Nigerians from other parts of the country.

    “The problem we are here to solve as a community, as an Umunna, is a creation of self-serving criminals who do not represent the interests of the Ndi-Igbo and Nigerians. Mr. President knows this better than all of us, and that’s why he has never held any group accountable for the infractions of law-breaking individuals who identify as their members. This, I believe, is the democracy we have all chosen,” he stated.

    Pointing out that the criminals disrupting the peace in the South-East are doing so in connivance with “forces exploiting the situation for dangerous political agenda,” the Vice President said attempts to undo the hard work of the nation’s heroes past will fail.  

    He maintained however that the catastrophic situation can’t be reversed unless the government involves the people whom he said are the ears, legs and mouths in the region.

    “Today, we stand united to firmly declare: enough is enough,” VP Shettima stated, stressing the need for a coordinated intervention to tackle insecurity in the region head-on, even as he assured the South East people that the Tinubu administration “shall not rest until it fulfills its pledge to mitigate the crisis” it inherited.

    Noting that no better visionary can save the nation from implosion than President Tinubu,” he said the development agenda of the federal government in the South East will continue to elude the region if “the intricate web of security challenges” the Tinubu-led federal government inherited is not contained.

    “The seeds of progress can only sprout in the fertile soil of peace and security. This is why we take immense pride in the collaboration of all stakeholders and initiatives such as the Peace in South East Project, to ensure that the shield of security in the region isn’t a distant mirage in the landscape of aspirations,” the VP further noted.

    He commended the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and convener of the peace initiative, Hon. Kalu, for his efforts to restore lasting peace in the South East region, just as he said the event attests “to the profound understanding that no one comprehends the experience of a community better than the people

     themselves.”

    Earlier, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu said that his goal for initiating the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) was to foster peace, unity, and development in the region. He said the project also aims at promoting

    reconciliation among communities and individuals affected by past conflicts.

    “When I embarked on the South East Project, my vision was clear — to foster peace, unity, and development in our region through a non-kinetic approach. The South East has long been known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities, and enterprising people. Yet, we have faced our fair share of challenges, including socioeconomic disparities, insecurities, political tensions, and occasional conflicts.

    “Our goals in the South East Project are clear. We aim to promote reconciliation among communities and individuals affected by past conflicts. We recognize the need to address the root causes of conflict, including socio-economic disparities and political tensions. Empowering communities is another crucial goal of the project, providing them with the necessary resources, skills, and opportunities for sustainable development,” said the Deputy Speaker.

    Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the South East Governor’s Forum, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, commended the Vice President for his sufficient goodwill to the people of the South East.

    Uzodimma who is also Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) said, “Our Vice President has shown sufficient goodwill to the people of the South East. From this part of the country, we will continue to work with the rest of Nigeria to make the country a prosperous nation for the interest of all of us for service to God and humanity.”

    On his part, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, said, “We the people of the South East hereby declare that peace is what we stand for as a region.

    “We declare peace and prosperity, we declare peace for progress, we stand for peace in the South East as a catalyst that will drive growth in all sectors of the economy and rekindle the confidence of future generations. We declare that peace is better,” the Abia governor submitted.

    Other dignitaries present at the event include Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Gilbert Onyekachukwu Ibezim; Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

    Others are Senator Osita Izunaso; Kano State APC governorship candidate, Alhaji Nasiru Gawuna; former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Chief Henry Ikoh; the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Highness, Nnaemeka Achebe; the Ooni of Ife, His Royal Highness, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; former Imo State Governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha; former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu; former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, among others.

  • My ultimate goal is to have peace in southeast, says Reps deputy speaker

    My ultimate goal is to have peace in southeast, says Reps deputy speaker

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu has said that his goal for initiating Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) was to foster peace, unity and development in the region. 

    The initiative canvasses the adoption of a non kinetic approach to resolving the problem of insecurity in south east. 

    Kalu’s Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu quoted the him as saying that the project also aimed at promoting 

    reconciliation among communities and individuals affected by past conflicts. 

    He said: “When I embarked on the Peace in South East Project, my vision was clear — to foster peace, unity, and development in our region through a non-kinetic approach. 

    “The South East has long been known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities, and enterprising people. Yet, we have faced our fair share of challenges, including socioeconomic disparities, insecurities, political tensions, and occasional conflicts.

    “Our goals in the South East Project are clear. We aim to promote reconciliation among communities and individuals affected by past conflicts. 

    “We recognize the need to address the root causes of conflict, including socio-economic disparities and political tensions. Empowering communities is another crucial goal of the project, providing them with the necessary resources, skills, and opportunities for sustainable development.

    “We also believe in the power of engaging youth in the peace-building process. By empowering young people with education, training, and leadership opportunities, we are investing in the region’s future.

    “Inclusivity and social justice are core values we aim to foster, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, have equal access to opportunities and resources.

    “Cultivating a culture of peace is essential in our journey. We must promote dialogue, tolerance, and non-violence as core values within our communities. By working towards these goals, we aim to create a more peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive region for all its residents”.

    Kalu said the initiative represented a significant milestone in the journey toward lasting peace and development and called for inclusion and social justice in the political system. 

    He said “It is a comprehensive framework that encompasses various strategies, programs, and projects aimed at addressing the root causes of conflict, promoting reconciliation, and empowering communities.

    “But let us remember that the journey towards peace is not a destination. It is an ongoing process, one that requires our unflinching commitment and dedication. We must continue to foster inclusivity, promote social justice, and empower our youth. 

    “We must invest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. We must create opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development. And above all, we must cultivate a culture of peace, respect, and understanding.

    “As the Pioneer of Peace in the South East Project, I am deeply grateful for the support and collaboration of each one of you. Together, we have shown the world the power of unity, the strength of diversity, and the beauty of our shared humanity. Let us continue to build upon the foundation we have laid, to strive for a South East that is prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive”.

  • Fire outbreak destroy goods, properties in Rivers

    Fire outbreak destroy goods, properties in Rivers

    Two fire outbreaks that occurred in Port Harcourt and Obio-Akpor Local government areas have destroyed goods and property worth millions of naira.

    One of the fire incidents occurred at the Marine Base axis opposite the plank shade market.

    Sources said  the fire started from a shop in the morning, adding that the inferno was almost put out by residents and shop owners before the arrival of fire fighters.

    The source, who spoke in confidence said: “I was just called upon that there was fire in Marine Base. So when I came to the place it was opposite the plank shade but the boys around did well to see that they stop the fire.

    “Fire service came later and completed what the boys started but smoke is still coming out.”

    The other fire incident happened at a parking space in the Rumueme axis of Mile 4 along Ikwerre Road destroying  many properties.

    It was gathered that the rented space was used by a trader to store items including furniture and mattresses.

    One of the affected residents said: “I just locked my door and I went out. My coming back I saw a crowd shouting fire, fire. Reaching here I saw the whole mattresses at the back have burnt. It affected my window and most of mu things got lost.

    Another source, who spoke in confidence said: “We just saw the fire but we could not identify where the fire is coming from. I picked my phone and started calling the fire service. Though they were not picking but they later came. There is this man that stored many goods. Some of the goods just came in”.

    He said some persons succeeded in removing their valuables while many others could not because they were not around when the inferno started.

    He said: “For this man most of the goods were consumed in the fire. But we thank    God that no life was lost before the fire was put out.”

    An official of the Federal Fire Service said they rushed to the scene immediately they received the distressed call and expressed happiness that some properties were salvaged by residents.

  • JUST IN: Umahi’s younger brother withdraws from Ebonyi South senatorial race

    JUST IN: Umahi’s younger brother withdraws from Ebonyi South senatorial race

    Austin Umahi, the younger brother to the Minister of Works, David Umahi on Friday, December 29, withdrew from the Ebonyi South senatorial bye election.

    This followed the zoning of the position to Onicha local government area by the State Working Committee of the All Progressive Congress (APC) on the order of Governor Francis Nwifuru.

    His withdrawal followed a meeting by the Umahi family of Uburu, Ohaozara local government area where he was prevailed upon to withdraw from the race.

    The seat became vacant following the resignation of appointment Senator David Umahi upon his appointment as Minister of Works.

    A statement by High Chief Nwaze Umahi, the eldest son of Umahi’s family, x-rayed the contributions of Austin in building APC in Ebonyi state and noted that Austin would have had a clear winning if he should go on with his ambition.

    It however noted that the younger Umahi was prevailed upon to shelve his legitimate ambition in order to give peace a chance as no position is worth spilling the blood of anybody as no sincere person who wants to serve the people in any capacity ought to fight for it.

    The statement reads in part: “The general public is hereby intimated that on the 28th day of December, 2023 , the family of late Joseph Umahi Nwaeze of Umunaga Uburu, Ohaozara LGA, Ebonyi State held a meeting whereat we reviewed the developments and utterances with respect to the vacant Ebonyi South senatorial seat which Austin Umahi had indicated interest in contesting on the APC platform and notes as follows:

    “That the Umahi family is not unaware of the resolution purportedly passed by the State Working Committee(SWC) of the Ebonyi State APC  purportedly zoning the Ebonyi South senatorial seat to Onicha Local Government Area.

    “That the family is not unaware that the purported Ebonyi APC SWC resolution has no place in law as it’s the exclusive preserve of the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) or the National Working Committee (NWC) to zone political offices, if need be, and to organize party primaries for all elective offices.

    “That the family is fully convinced that it is the inalienable constitutional right of Austin Umahi, as a member of the APC and Nigerian citizen of Ebonyi South Senatorial District, to contest the APC primary for the rerun election to the vacant Ebonyi South Senatorial seat notwithstanding the purported Ebonyi APC SWC resolution.

    “That the whole essence of the purportedly Ebonyi APC SWC resolution is to oust Austin Umahi from contesting the primary in view of the clear evidence on ground that Austin enjoys an overwhelming grassroot support capable of granting him outright victory in a free and fair APC primary and re-run elections in Ebonyi South.

    “That contrary to the purported Ebonyi APC SWC resolution, the APC otherwise has a MORAL BURDEN to give Austin Umahi the right of first refusal in the Ebonyi South senatorial rerun election having earlier won the APC senatorial primary of 28th May 2022 which he relinquished on the intervention of the family to HE Engr David Umahi, the then Ebonyi state governor and current Minister of Works.

    “That Austin Umahi is known to be a reliable APC member who has worked selflessly and relentlessly for victories  of the party in Ebonyi State and was the Director General of  Divine Mandate Campaign Council for HE Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, his sole agent in the governorship primary and his State Returning  Officer in the governorship election of March 2023.

    “He did all these to the satisfaction and admiration of both the APC members and non-members in Ebonyi State.

    “That Austin Umahi has never enjoyed any political appointment, notwithstanding that he was the same person who dropped his position as National Vice Chairman of the PDP to defect to the APC with the then Ebonyi state governor, HE David Umahi, and joined since then in building the APC in 2020.

    “Not withstanding the facts above highlighted:”The family of late Joseph Umahi Nwaze has decided to passionately appeal to Austin Umahi and his teaming loyal and dogged supporters to kindly shelve his legitimate ambition of contesting for the vacant Senatorial seat for now in order to give peace a chance and disappoint all those people who want to engender crisis and anarchy in Ebonyi South Senatorial District.

    “That the family immensely appreciates Austin Umahi for accepting to drop his just ambition and thank his teaming supporters for their sustained support even after the purported Ebonyi APC SWC resolution”, the statement read.